John Pope Obituary

John David Pope, born on July 3, 1964, in McKinney, Texas, entered into the presence of his Heavenly Father on July 2, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer and COPD—just one day shy of his 61st birthday. He was the son of Johnnie Lou and Troy Lee Pope.

John David is survived by his son, Christopher Ryan Vickrey of Greenville, Texas. He is also survived by his three sisters, who loved him dearly: Angela Heuer (Charles) of Whitehall, MI, and their children: Leslie Rodgers of Howe, TX; Lindsey Black of Kingsport, TN; Ryan Rodgers of Billings, MT; and Lauren Heuer of Boston, MA. Sister Jeanna Morgan, widow of Patrick Morgan, of Houston, TX, and their daughter: Emily Morgan of Houston, TX. and Sister Cynthia Quian (Hector) of Houston, TX, and their children: Brandon Quian of Huntsville, TX; Stephen Quian of Cypress, TX; and Matthew Quian of Great Bend, NY. 

He is also survived by stepmother, June Pope, of McKinney, and three half-sisters: Melissa Smith of Denton, TX. Susan McCartney of Flint, TX, and Stephanie Groce (Stephen) of Van Alstyne, TX 

David leaves behind a host of cousins who were dear to him: Jennifer Lacy of Wylie, TX; Brian Lacy of Lavon, TX; Aaron Lacy of McKinney, TX; and George Lacy III of McKinney, TX. Their father, George H. Lacy II (“Uncle Bud”), was his father-figure  and mentor.

David’s beloved dog, Bernie, was his constant companion and a big part of his life…just like the home team: Dallas Cowboys.

He devoted over 20 years as a Service Writer at Bob Tomes Ford, where he earned the respect of colleagues and customers alike. In later years, he continued his dedication to serving through his work within the city of McKinney.

David, affectionately known as the “Mayor of Barnes Street,” was a familiar and comforting presence in his neighborhood—always sitting in his open garage, waving to passersby, and keeping a watchful eye over those around him. Neighbors and friends will remember his warm presence, big heart and the friendships built around karaoke, grilling, and his ever-evolving collection for his “Garage Den”.

David had a lifelong love of race cars—both watching and driving them. In his younger years, he even took to the track himself, fueled by passion and adrenaline. He was also an avid fan of classic Westerns, especially Gunsmoke and The Rifleman, shows that echoed the values he lived by: grit, loyalty, and quiet strength.

David wanted it to be known that growing up in our family wasn’t easy. There were painful experiences in childhood that left deep marks for all siblings – those stayed with him for the rest of his life. But David faced those scars with quiet courage. He wouldn’t talk much about the weight he carried, but he fought those challenges daily the only way he knew how – with strength and quiet resolve.

Despite the hardships, David kept his faith in Jesus Christ! He was a true survivor— resilient and steadfast in his belief in God. His life is a testament to perseverance that even while carrying unseen burdens and fighting personal battles each day, through it all, his faith remained his anchor.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Saturday, July 19th, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Charles W. Smith & Sons Funeral Home, located at 2343 Gage Rd., Lavon, Texas. Come share stories and memories as we honor David’s life.